A recent survey conducted by the Institute Infratest reveals shifts in political sentiment within Germany, indicating a tightening of support between the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) and the Alternative for Germany (AfD). The survey, part of the ARD’s “Deutschlandtrend” places both parties at 26 percent, a slight decrease for the CDU/CSU and a slight increase for the AfD. This marks the AfD’s highest recorded value in the survey.
The Social Democratic Party (SPD) maintains its support at 14 percent. The Green Party shows a minor improvement, reaching 12 percent while The Left remains steady at 10 percent. Both the Basis (BSW) and Free Democratic Party (FDP) register at 3 percent, falling below the threshold for parliamentary representation.
The survey highlights continued dissatisfaction with the ruling coalition government comprised of the CDU/CSU and SPD. Seventy-seven percent of eligible voters express dissatisfaction, a rise from the previous measurement. Satisfaction with the functioning of German democracy has also decreased, with only 42 percent expressing satisfaction – a 10-point decline from August 2024. Dissatisfaction is particularly pronounced in the eastern German states, where two-thirds express discontent.
Recognizing extremism and populism as the primary threat to German democracy, 30% of respondents cite it as the biggest concern. “Dysfunctional behavior” from political institutions and bureaucracy follows closely at 20 percent, reflecting a broader concern about governmental efficacy. Foreign policy threats and migration concerns remain lower on the list.
Public satisfaction with individual government figures presents a mixed picture. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) receives the highest approval rating at 56 percent, a slight decrease from the previous month. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) has 34% approval. Finance Minister and Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil (SPD) faces a majority of disapproval, with only 31 percent satisfied with his work. Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) sees his approval rating decline to 27 percent, his lowest since assuming office, with 69 percent expressing dissatisfaction.
Notably, the AfD’s parliamentary group leader Alice Weidel also registers at 26 percent satisfaction, mirroring Chancellor Merz’s numbers.
The survey, conducted among 1,306 individuals between September 29th and October 1st, underscores a period of political flux and waning public confidence in established institutions.
